In celebration of the International Day of Rural Women, themed “Rural women confront the global cost-of-living crisis,” TERA proudly launches its transformative biochar solution aimed at enhancing food security, creating jobs for women, and addressing climate change. By converting agricultural waste into biochar, TERA boosts crop yields, strengthens resilience to drought, and significantly contributes to carbon sequestration, playing a critical role in climate action. As TERA rapidly expands across East Africa, its innovative approach is set to empower rural women farmers, offering them new opportunities in both agriculture and the emerging biochar sector.
Bagasse, the fibrous byproduct of sugar cane processing, is one of Africa’s most abundant agricultural waste resources. TERA harnesses this material, converting it into biochar using advanced pyrolysis technology. This natural soil enhancer boosts water retention, reduces reliance on chemical fertilizers, and plays a pivotal role in securing reliable harvests, particularly in drought-prone regions. By prioritizing rural women in its operations, TERA not only strengthens food security but also opens doors for women to lead in sustainable agriculture. The first biochar production facility will be established in Kisumu, Western Kenya, a major hub for sugar production. TERA’s strategic location near sugar mills ensures access to bagasse, turning waste into value while generating economic opportunities for women in local farming communities.
“At TERA, we see sugar cane bagasse as a powerful resource to unlock opportunities for African farmers, particularly women,” said Rob Palmer, CEO of TERA. “Our biochar technology transforms this agricultural by product into a sustainable input that enhances crop resilience, improves soil health, and bolsters food security. Alongside these benefits, we are also creating sustainable jobs for women in rural areas,
positioning them at the forefront of Africa’s biochar revolution. Our goal is to become the largest biochar company in Africa, delivering scalable social impact and investable climate action across the continent.”
TERA’s mission extends beyond job creation and food security; the company is a key player in global efforts to mitigate climate change. By 2030, TERA aims to sequester 1 million tons of CO2 equivalent (CO2e), a milestone that will significantly contribute to climate resilience. The establishment of biochar hubs near agricultural centers will reduce carbon emissions, while also advancing sustainable farming practices that promote economic inclusion, especially for women. Additionally, TERA’s biochar solutions help reduce agricultural runoff, protecting water sources and preserving ecosystems crucial for biodiversity.
This launch marks a new era in sustainable agriculture, where waste is transformed into a valuable resource that not only boosts crop yields but also supports rural women, fostering long-term economic empowerment. TERA’s commitment to rapid expansion will bring profound benefits to women farmers, ensuring they play a leading role in advancing food security, protecting the environment, and shaping the future of sustainable agriculture in Africa.For more information on TERA’s mission to empower women and rural communities through biochar innovation, visit www.teracarbon.earth
